What’s the best way to make a statement about a cause that you believe in? Get Bob Buckley (guitarist and singer of Free Henry! fame), and a host of community activists and neighbors to show up to a tactical urbanist event, and then get videographer John Paget to film the whole thing.
That’s what supporters of downgrading Parkside Avenue did. They broke out the singing, the flyers and the signs, the walking, the street crossing and the filming, in order to show just how much Parkside needs a road diet. At this point, the street is more like a thoroughfare than a neighborhood street. Plus, with all of the pedestrian traffic from the Buffalo Zoo and Delaware Park, with families crossing left and right, there’s no excuse to not slow down the traffic and improve the quality of life for everyone – not to mention the occasional cyclists that is crazy/determined enough to commute on the street.
How hard would it be to legalize street parking all day, and thus eliminate traffic lane/s? Join proponents of slower traffic on Parkside… you can start by watching this video that shows real people, living real lives in the midst of what has been a dangerous street for far too long.
The video was sponsored by Citizens of Parkside Avenue | A petition was started, but has now been closed. A letter has been sent to The Mayor’s office and the issue is going before Common Council. The rally for support is underway. Consider joining the families as they look for ways to bring this matter to light.